Taking Control of Cancer

Recorded on World Prostate Cancer Day, this episode Taking Control of Cancer explores one of the most important ways to improve outcomes for men with prostate cancer: understanding your risk and getting checked early.
 
In this special episode, host Steve Bland is joined by Dr Bunmi Olajide, a GP in north east London and a passionate advocate for raising awareness of prostate cancer, particularly among communities at higher risk, and Rishi Athwal, Early Diagnosis Project Manager at North East London Cancer Alliance, who shares how North East London Cancer Alliance is working to improve awareness and encourage earlier diagnosis across north east London.
 
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men, but many people are unaware that some men are significantly more at risk than others. During the episode, the team discusses why black men are twice as likely to develop prostate cancer, why having a family history of prostate cancer increases your own risk, and why understanding these risk factors could save lives through earlier diagnosis.
 
Dr Olajide explains what men need to know about the PSA blood test, when to consider asking for one, and how to have conversations with your GP about prostate cancer concerns. The discussion also tackles common questions and misconceptions around symptoms, screening and whether men should get checked even if they feel well.

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What is Taking Control of Cancer?

Welcome to Taking Control of Cancer, the podcast from the North East London Cancer Alliance. Think of us as your ‘how to’ guide when it comes to busting common cancer myths, overcoming fears and barriers, and improving cancer prevention, diagnosis, treatment and care.

This series aims to provide both patients and healthcare professionals with tangible things they can do to help when it comes to cancer. Whilst we know not all cancers are preventable, there are things we can all do that could make a positive difference to the health and wellbeing of our family, friends and colleagues.

There are two underlying themes across all episodes – the importance of early diagnosis, and reducing health inequalities.

Host:
Steve Bland is an award-winning podcaster and producer and one of the three presenters of the BBC podcast You, Me and the Big C, which was set up by his first wife - BBC presenter Rachael Bland - before her death from triple negative breast cancer in 2018.

Regular guests:
Dr Angela Wong, Chief Medical Officer, North East London Cancer Alliance:
Angela is a driving force behind improving cancer diagnostics for residents across north east London. As Chief Medical Officer for the North East London Cancer Alliance, Angela works tirelessly on delivering innovation and service improvements for cancer patients.

Femi Odewale, Managing Director, North East London Cancer Alliance:
Femi leads the programme teams from the North East London Cancer Alliance across three core areas of work: Early Diagnosis, Diagnosis and Treatment, and Personalised Care.